Biochemistry
| Full details for "Copper - Referred to external agency". | |
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Name |
Copper - Referred to external agency |
Alternative name/Profile |
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Department |
Biochemistry |
Investigation |
Useful to diagnose and monitor response to copper (Cu) replacement in patients with suspected deficiency e.g. due to gastrointestinal malabsorption or excessive zinc supplementation. If a copper overload syndrome e.g. Wilson's disease, is suspected, measurement of Cu, serum caeruloplasmin and a 24 hour urinary copper are recommended for diagnostic work-up. |
Specimen type |
Sodium Heparin Plasma |
Sample type |
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Sample container & volume |
5 mL Trace Metal Tube / Navy |
Frequency of analysis |
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Turnaround time |
20 days |
Availability |
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Notes |
Diurnal peak in morning. Increased levels during pregnancy and when taking oral contraceptives.
All external tests need to be accompanied by a Blood Sciences Form, printable from the intranet under Hospital Forms/Laboratory Request Forms (bottom of page) Some external tests are only dispatched Monday – Wednesday and should be sent on the day of collection.
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Related links |
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Reference range |
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Last updated |
Fri, 10 Oct 2025 16:29:29 IST |